In a controversial move, Norway sails frigate into Russian economic zone together with U.K. and U.S. Navy ships

This is the first time since the 90ties NATO surface warships are conducting maritime security operations inside the Russian exclusive economic zone in the Barents Sea without participating Northern Fleet ships. The Norwegian frigate KNM Thor Heyerdahl today sails the Barents Sea together with the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Ross, the British Royal Navy Auxiliary RFA Tidespring and the frigate HMS Sutherland. The voyage is supported by Danish patrol aircraft. “The vessel group will operate north of Finnmark and the Fisherman Peninsula in the course of the next few days,” says spokesperson Lt. Col. Ivar Moen with the Joint Head Quarters. He confirms…